Clay Riness Photography

Gary Evers Benefit Candids

On October 15, 2013 my dearest friend, one beloved by everyone who knows him, was rear-ended by an inattentive driver while waiting to make a left turn off the highway. The collision spun him across the center line and into oncoming traffic where he was then struck by a milk truck. Gary suffered a severe traumatic brain injury from this tragic accident. His recovery has been painfully slow, and at the time of this event he was in his fourth facility, still unable to talk, stand unassisted, use his hands (and more) ... he has a long journey to come home to us.

On March 9th, an amazing outpouring of support, love and generosity took place as friends, co-workers, neighbors, loved ones and a supportive community turned out for a fundraiser. This gallery is a collection of simple candids shot as I walked about between acting as master of ceremonies. There is very minimal editing in these shots ... a little cropping, an exposure adjustment in post processing here and there. No fancy vignettes or skin softening tricks ... just people in mid-giving. As the day wore on and light faded, I was forced to push the camera higher to enlist existing light. You'll find some noise (grain) in some of these. It's part of the package and it is what it is.

Many heartfelt thanks to ALL who gave so much, and especially the Coon Valley Lions Club for which there are not words to describe our debt of gratitude.